Rochester's Manley named MLL's top defensive player

Major League Lacrosse announced that Rochester Rattlers defenseman Michael Manley has been named the 2014 Brine Defensive Player of the Year, as voted on by MLL coaches and general managers.

The Penn Yan native earned eight first place votes and a total of 54 points. Behind Manley in voting were Boston's Brodie Merrill and last year's recipient, Denver's Lee Zink, each with 21 points.

“I can't thank my teammates enough. While this is a great honor, individual accolades don't mean too much to me, as I would rather have the opportunity to celebrate a championship win with my teammates,” Manley said. “I am very lucky to have Goalie of the Year John Galloway behind me and I attribute this success to my teammates, guys like John Lade, Mike Lazore, Will Koshansky and arguably two of the best LSMs in the league, John LoCascio and Joel White.”

Starting in all 14 games for the Rattlers, Manley had his best statistical season so far in his three-year professional career. Posting six goals, two two-point goals, one assist and 37 ground balls, Manley proved to be one of the most versatile defenders in the league.

The Duke University product was twice named the Warrior Defensive Player of the Week for his strong defensive performance.

“Michael stepped up his game this season,” Rattlers head coach Tim Soudan said. “He is a true leader on the field and always likes the challenge of shutting down the top attackmen in the league — something he did very well this year.”

With the Rattlers continuing in the postseason, Manley's tough defense will be necessary as they chase the Steinfeld Trophy against the Denver Outlaws at 7 p.m. Saturday in Kennesaw, Ga., for the 2014 MLL Championship Game.